TOPEKA, Kan. — Shawnee County is taking action to resolve a long-standing problem that the City of Topeka has failed to address: vacant lots in southwest Topeka tied to unpaid special assessments and back taxes.
On Thursday, the Shawnee County Counselor’s Office announced that the county will initiate judicial tax foreclosure proceedings on dozens of lots, citing years of inaction by the city. While the City of Topeka is legally authorized to collect unpaid specials through foreclosure, it has declined to act — leaving neighbors frustrated and key parcels sitting idle.
Calling Out Local Developers
Community members have frequently pointed to local developer Jim Klausman and his related entities as central players in this stalemate. Critics say that years of unpaid special assessments tied to developments connected to Klausman have placed a burden on the county, city, and neighboring homeowners who continue to pay their share.
“People in these neighborhoods have watched the grass grow taller and the assessments go unpaid, all while the city shrugs,” said one resident who lives near the affected area. “It’s time someone stepped in.”
County Promises Public Sale
The county’s lawsuit will force the issue into court and, if the taxes and specials remain unpaid, will result in a public tax sale within six months. Property owners will have the chance to negotiate or settle during the proceedings, but Shawnee County officials say they are committed to resolving the matter for good.
A Shift in Accountability
By taking this step, Shawnee County is sending a clear message: developers and property owners will not be allowed to leave lots vacant and tax bills unpaid indefinitely. This action could mark a turning point in holding powerful landowners accountable and clearing the path for future development.
